4 steps to Cleaning an epoxy garage floor

Epoxy floors are highly recommended and very popular among those who are looking for the best option for coating their floors. They are stylish, customizable, and easy to maintain.

Epoxy floorings are a lifetime option as they have the best durability compared to other floors. But for a better lifespan and to help maintain their beauty, you need to follow some tips about cleaning an epoxy garage floor.

What Is the Best Way to Clean an Epoxy Floor?

Fortunately, the cleaning process is easy and quick and can’t be a bother at all. There are some steps to follow. Doing these steps properly results in the perfect look of your flooring over the years.

In general, you need to clean up the dust, use water and soap, and clean the stains using specific tools and materials. Follow us to have more details.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning an Epoxy Garage Floor

For cleaning epoxy garage floor notice that these steps should be done in order. Otherwise, the cleaning process may damage your flooring. Some of these steps should be done regularly, and others may be needed from time to time.

The need for these steps depends on the car and foot traffic in the area, the color of the floor, and the number of doors and windows.

1. Cleaning up the dust by vacuuming or sweeping

Whether you are using a mop or a vacuum cleaner, you need to be gentle. Clean up the surface from all the bigger objects and start sweeping. If you are using a vacuum cleaner, make sure that you pick the soft brush.

Hard ones can scratch the surface. If you don’t want to use a vacuum cleaner, pick up a microfiber mop or soft broom instead to clean up the surface and remove dust and dirt. Don’t skip the corners.

2. Mopping

Mix mild dish soap and warm water and start mopping all over the surface with a soft mop. You can skip the soap if the surface is not that dirty and just use the help of water for cleaning an epoxy garage floor.

3. Cleaning the stains

Some stains can’t be removed by just mopping. If so, you need to pick a cloth and use water and soap to clean that spot. If you skip these spots, the stains may remain, and cleaning them gets harder through time.

This method works for usual stains. But if you have oily or greasy spots on your surface, you need to use harder ways.

Oil and grease stains may need a non-abrasive and ammonia-free cleaner. Use a soft brush and scrub till they are gone. Then, use the water to clean up the chemicals.

4. Polishing

You can apply the special polisher from time to time to return the shine of the floor. Remember that polishing won’t be needed every time you’re cleaning an epoxy garage floor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

There are some mistakes that may damage resin-based floorings. Avoid them for the best results.

1. Using acidic and heavy cleaners: Acid can easily damage the epoxy flooring.
2. Using harsh tools: Any tool that scratches the surface is not recommended.
3. Skipping the stains: This can make the stains permanent.
4. Using bad polishes: Notice that you are using the proper polish and wax that are specifically made for epoxy coatings while you are cleaning an epoxy garage floor.
5. Dragging and pulling heavy stuff: While you are preparing the surface for cleaning, moving the heavy objects can scratch the coating.

Considerations When Cleaning a garage floor

Considering these tips while cleaning an epoxy garage floor helps with its durability, beauty, and lifespan.

•   Using the proper tools and chemicals.
•   Using mild soaps.
•   Cleaning the stains properly.
•   Doing the cleaning process when it’s needed.
•   Cleaning up the chemicals when cleaning is finished.

Different kinds of stains and how to clean them

You may need different ways to clean different stains. Here is the table that guides you on how to remove different stains while cleaning an epoxy garage floor:

• • Oils and Grease: Clean excess oil using a sponge or soft cloth. Apply a diluted degreaser, wait for 15 minutes, gently scrub, and rinse with water.
  • Rust: Mix mild soap and water, scrub the area with a sponge, and use a rust remover safe for epoxy flooring if needed.
  • Tire Marks: Use a citrus-based cleaner, let it sit for a few minutes, scrub with a soft tool, and rinse with water.
  • Food Stains: Clean fresh stains with soapy water and a soft cloth. For dried stains, scrub with a nylon brush and rinse thoroughly with clean water.
  • Salt and Winter Debris: Vacuum the debris, mix water with a pH-neutral cleaner, mop the area gently, and rinse thoroughly.
  • Ink or Dye: Apply isopropyl alcohol or a gentle cleaner directly to the stain; rub it with a sponge or soft cloth until the stain disappears.

Tools and materials for cleaning epoxy garage floor

Different tools and materials are designed for cleaning an epoxy garage floor that are used for different cleaning purposes. Notice that you don’t need to have them all. Consider your needs and pick the best. Some of the tools include:

• Soft-bristled broom
• Wet/Dry vacuum
• Non-abrasive mop
• Microfiber mop
• Safety gear

Some of the chemicals include:

• pH-neutral cleaner
• Isopropyl alcohol
• Diluted ammonia solution
• Warm water

Cleaners You Should Not Use on Epoxy

Heavy and harsh chemicals can easily damage your resin-based flooring. Try not to use any while cleaning an epoxy garage floor, unless it’s needed. Some of these cleaners include:

• Citric acid
• Oil-based cleaners
• Vinegar
• High-alkaline cleaners
• Solvent-based cleaners
• Bleach
• Most soap-based cleaners

Try to use warm water and mild dish soap for daily cleaning.

 

Final thoughts

Cleaning an epoxy garage floor is a simple yet essential task to maintain its durability, beauty, and functionality. If you follow the proper cleaning steps and avoid common mistakes, you can keep your epoxy flooring in perfect condition for years. Regular maintenance with the right tools and mild cleaning agents not only keeps the floor spotless but also enhances its shine and longevity. Whether dealing with everyday dirt or stubborn stains, a thoughtful cleaning routine will make your epoxy garage floor a standout feature of your space.

FAQs:

1. How often should I clean my epoxy garage floor?

It depends on foot traffic and use. But usually you need a weekly sweeping and a monthly deep cleaning.

2. How do I keep the flooring shiny while cleaning an epoxy garage floor?

Clean the surface regularly with mild soap and water, and avoid using abrasive tools and chemicals. Use polishes that are specifically designed for epoxy flooring.

3. How should I prevent stains?

It’s better to clean up the stains immediately, as it eases the cleaning process.

4. Can I use floor polish or wax after cleaning?

You can use polishes that are designed for resin-based coatings. But it’s not necessary to polish every time you clean the surface.